Goodreads Authors/Readers discussion

The newest book in the War of Destiny series is a side story that takes place between books 2 & 3 of the main series. It is on sale for 99 cents (slight variation based on currency and local taxes) for all Amazon territories through Feb 17th.

Following his imprisonment and the betrayal of one of his fellow ka-tet members, Matthew de la Roche withdraws from them as well as from the Resistance itself. He struggles to find a way past the trauma that's left him grief-stricken and distrustful of those whom he had once considered family.

A surprise encounter with the powerful Medici family of Tuscany alters the harmful and lonely path Matthew has chosen. Creating a mortal persona, he discovers a renewed sense of purpose and contentment in their world, but as much as Matthew desires to live as a human, he is not.

When King Valentino makes a bold move to control Cardinal Medici and other mortals who rule Rome, Matthew assumes the role of protector – a role that shouldn't be difficult for a fire elemental of his age – except his element hasn't worked correctly since his imprisonment. The Vampire King's plans threaten the new life he has created. Deep in enemy territory, Matthew believes he is alone. He may be the only vampire able to stop Valentino's plans, but Matthew may have more allies than he knows.

*This book takes place between books 2-3 of the main series. Reading at least books 1 & 2 is highly recommended.

*Trigger warning: this book contains flashbacks of torture the MC suffered while imprisoned.*

That sounds like a great addition to the series! What inspired you to explore this side story between books 2 & 3?

Toni wrote: "That sounds like a great addition to the series! What inspired you to explore this side story between books 2 & 3?"

Thanks for the question! Actually, several fans and beta readers of my fourth book had expressed an interest in seeing this story take place. Matthew's affiliation with the Medicis was mentioned in book 3, but wasn't fully explored.

Although I originally had no plan to include it, the number of questions I received from my beta readers and some fans caused me to start thinking about the idea. It took a year or two after I started fielding questions about it for the idea to fully formulate. I hope it is everything they hoped to see! :)